Installing a Block Heater...
Logistics Pro
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 4,604
Likes: 4
From: Claremore, OK
I've been plugging my 04 in the last couple of night when it's been down in the teens and low 20. My thought was the truck not only would start easier (no missing) but the water would be warm enough that I wouldn't have to scrape the frost off the windows just turn the heater on. That hasn't been the case...or at least the warm water that is. Maybe I'm spoiled to the block heaters on Kenworths with C12 and C15 motors...you leave them plugged in over night, the motor is about 130-140 degrees the next morning...regardless of the outside temp. I had first though maybe the extension cord was at fault, but after plugging a work light into the cord I know the cord is fine. Is this normal for these motors? I'm not worried about the electrical usage overnight, just the welfare of the truck and trying not to waste the fuel.
Elder User
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 933
Likes: 0
From: Québec
What a nice forum, I was trying to figure out how much I would spend to install a block heater, thanks for all your info, I found the heater, exactly where you said, all I need is the cord,
Thanks everyone. I am new on this forum, 2006, F 350, I am from the 91 prestroke.
Thanks everyone. I am new on this forum, 2006, F 350, I am from the 91 prestroke.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,737
Likes: 0
From: Republic of Texas
Not too Bad
Just flexible I guess. Glad this was helpful.. You might want to look at the local International (Navistar) Dealer for the heater cord as they have been shown to be 50 to 60% less than thru a Ford dealer.
Feel free to leave Rep points . . .
Feel free to leave Rep points . . .
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,737
Likes: 0
From: Republic of Texas
Just Have At It . . .
WELCOME!Installing the cord is a really messy, sticky job. Especially if you follow the directions and route it per OEM. Plan on getting that underbody, black goo all over your arms and hands. Following the OEM instructions does secure it properly but man what a PITA!
Postmaster
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 3,048
Likes: 1
do you guys have IH part # for the cord? i just got 2005 F350 that was sold to guy in FL and he opted out , the cord was not installed, the heater is there ... it would help to just go there with part# and pay for it....
thanks for help.
thanks for help.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,737
Likes: 0
From: Republic of Texas
Sorry, I don't have it handi. It has been shown here many times so I suggest a search for it in the other threads on this subject. Good luck!
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Elder User
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 710
Likes: 0
From: Fallon,NV
With winter coming, I was thinking of buying a cord since I will need it now that I moved up north. Thanks to all in this thread who posted pictures and explained where everything was. I was happy to see that the truck had the cord already installed (I bought it in Colorado) when I crept under my truck tonight. It's amazing how a few pictures will get you the answers you need so quickly.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Fleet Owner
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 27,882
Likes: 3,595
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 307
Likes: 0
From: Amherstburg, On canada
How long do you guys keep your trucks plugged in for? I was thinking a timer to cut down the hydro costs - and just say turn it on 3 hours before i leave in the morning. I know it depends on how cold it is but just generally speaking?
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 307
Likes: 0
From: Amherstburg, On canada
Thanks - its hard enough to explain to the wife why i need to plug it in w/o the hydro bill going up to. 20 years ago i worked at a salt mine that had a few 6.2 chevs and i tell you, IF you could get it to start it would sound like marbels in a coffee can and the damn thing never warmed up - we just left it running all night. Technology has improved - i hope
Senior User
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 154
Likes: 0
From: Stationed in Beaufort SC
Some guys here dont plug in unless it is around 20 to 30 degrees. Last wnter I plugged in when it was in the 40's and you could tell a huge diffrence. Started right away. The timer is the key though. About 2 to 3 hours is what I would do.
New User
Joined: Jan 2022
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
I do not have one I have a 2003 6.0 limited excursion
I have a 2003 limited excursion I can see the two silver tabs and a hex bolt but nothing else above starter